Spring...How I Love Thee

Oh, spring...it puts a smile on my face. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "The earth laughs in flowers." I couldn't agree more, Mr. Emerson! I have always enjoyed the beautiful spring weather in the South, even if it's short-lived due to the hot summers. Nature's colorful blooms are refreshing and are always the first sign that it's time to get my hands dirty. Gardening is something that I've been doing since I was a little girl with my mother. As I've gotten older, I have found it to be more therapeutic and one of my favorite creative outlets. When you finally see your garden come together, it feels like you have painted your own masterpiece with Mother Nature's paint brush. 


There are a few rules of thumb that I have learned over the years.


* Don't plant any new plants until after Easter. This is a rule my mother taught me and it never fails.


* Know your planting zone. Better Home and Gardens always has great information according to your zone.


* Plant as many perennials as possible to save money. Those that have done well in my garden include: "Madison" Star Jasmine, Carolina Jasmine, Chrysanthemum "Mums", Blue Salvia, Hydrangea, Azalea, Peony, Sweet Olive or Tea Olive and Canna Lillies.


"Madison" Star Jasmine

Carolina Jasmine

Chrysanthemum "Mums"

Blue Salvia

Hydrangea

Azalea

Peony 

Sweet Olive or Tea Olive Tree

Canna Lillies


* Know your soil type. This is very important when you are planting plants like Hydrangea, Azalea and Peony. They are very particular plants, and knowing if the soil is acidic or alkaline will help them thrive. 


* Choose the color palette that appeals to you. I prefer choosing colors that compliment one another. Some people enjoy a multi-colored garden, but that feels a bit too busy for me. In certain areas, I also like to plant all the same color and species of plant for a bold punch. 
       
                          
                



* Understand your plants' water requirements. This will help you conserve water (very important) and create healthy plants. It is a common mistake to over-water your plants. For example, plants like hydrangea really like a well-drained soil. Also, it is better to give your plants a heavy soaking once or twice a week rather than to lightly watering every day. 


When amongst flowers or walking through a stunning garden, a sense of peace comes over me. Below are some of my favorite places that have provided such peace and inspiration for my own garden.


Charleston, South Carolina

Paradise Island, Bahamas

San Francisco, California 

Dallas, Texas 

The kiss of the sun for pardon,

The song of the birds for mirth,

One is nearer God's Heart in a garden

Than anywhere else on Earth.

- Dorothy Frances Gurney